A new class of diabetes drugs, tipped to rake in billions of dollars, faces an uncertain future following six cases of severe pancreas inflammation linked to Amylin and Eli Lilly’s Byetta. So-called GLP-1 drugs like Byetta — and similar products being developed by firms including Novo Nordisk and Roche — are seen as a promising new way to fight the growing problem of diabetes, which is closely linked to obesity.

This is the first I have heard of these concerns. Byetta is a drug used to treat type 2 diabetes and is also known to help persons shed a lot of pounds. I feared this when Byetta first appeared last year. I was concerned that Byetta would be abused as a weight loss drug, While there is no proof or claims that this is happening here, I do wonder what the exact situations that led to pancreatitis in the patients that are suing.

Recent Byetta sales have been lackluster so far this year and I am sure this will not help any.

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Post from: Blisstree

Byetta on the wrong end of pancreatitis claims

Diabetes Alert Day – Diabetes Alert Day is tomorrow, Tuesday the 27th of March. The goal of this day is to raise awareness of diabetes. As I said in my earlier post, diabetes is serious and you can have it without even knowing. Take this Risk Test to find out if you are at risk for diabetes or use this Alert e-card to remind someone close to you to take the test.

My Mom – I shared with you last week that my mother had a knee replacement and there were some diabetic considerations that go along with surgery. She did great, her incision looks beauteous and there is no sign of infection. I actually caught her vacuuming today, yes 1 week later. Walker was in the corner and she was happy as a pig in, well you know. She is stubborn, apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree.

Delta Burke – My interview with Ms. Delta Burke was exciting. It was my first time conducting such an interview and I think it went well. My voice was nasally and I had a huge Baltimore accent when I listened to the interview on tape, but not much I can do about that.

Byetta- Which leads me to Byetta. That has been very interesting to research. I have spoken to many doctors I work with on a regular basis, as well as some specialists, and we just haven’t seen a whole lot of use in the Mid-Atlantic yet. Many of the docs I talked with had similar comments and concerns about potential abuse of the medicine. Hey, anything that can help you drop 50 lbs in 6 months has a definite potential for misuse!

Tooth Decay – I let my dentist in on the whole tooth decay and diabetes thing. I gently explained that I had no issues finding any research or articles on the topic. By her reaction, you would have thought I had discovered the cure for cancer. Maybe I should look into a new dentist.

Cancer – Is there a link between certain cancers and diabetes? Will research be able to provide a definitive answer? Only time will tell. For now, I suggest us diabetics keep on exercising, eating right and using whatever treatment works best for each one of us.

Alternative Treatment – Will herbals be a mode of treatment among diabetics? How safe are these supplements? I will not personally be swallowing weeds, seeds or grasses of any sort but that is not to say it doesn’t work for everyone. To each his/her own!

Mental Health – I have also had a lot to say about depression, mental and emotional health of diabetics as well as the medications that go along with this subject. I think it is so important for mental health to be a priority. We all need someone, or something to lean on, whether it be a spouse, child, therapist, friend or medication. Happiness is a key factor in physical health as well. Thank heavens I have a big ol’ hubby that supports my big ol’ butt!

I am still open to any suggestions or advice. I like feedback. If you haven’t noticed, I’m a talker. If anyone would like to share a story or experience, related to diabetes of coarse, let me know. I could use some guest bloggers. I look forward to hearing from anyone, anyone at all, I know you are out there! LOL!

Post from: Blisstree

Hot Topics On Diabetes Notes For The Month Of March

Post from: Blisstree

I Hope To See You Tomorrow!

• Patients receiving BYETTA achieved a significant A1C reduction of 1.2% at Week 30 and 1.1% at 2.5 years¹
• Patients with a baseline A1C of >9% experienced, on average, a 2.1% reduction in A1C at 2.5 years¹

Isn’t it easier to take oral medication? Why would a type 2 diabetic want an injectable medication? The drug is very expensive, will insurance cover the cost? These are all questions that came to my mind while researching BYEETA.

BYEETA has to be used as adjunct therapy with other oral medications, like metformin. The medicine works after you eat to lower blood glucose levels by acting in harmony with your stomach, pancreas, liver and brain.

BYEETA also promotes weight loss in most of its patients. That is one side effect I would welcome!

With BYETTA, you may feel less hungry and eat less. In fact, research studies have shown that most patients lost weight. Some medicines for type 2 diabetes, such as sulfonylureas and insulin, can cause weight gain, while other drugs, such as metformin, do not affect weight.

Patients treated with BYETTA lost an average of 5.5 lb by Week 30, which further decreased to11.2 lb at 2.5 years¹

I haven’t personally seen BYEETA used in practice at the hospital that I work, which is an east coast facility. Nor have many of my RN friends at other institutions in the area. Apparently the medication is being prescribed though, I found many blogs dedicated to patients that use this medication with mixed thoughts.

Post from: Blisstree

Is BYETTA The Answer For Type 2 Diabetics?